One-Pot Zesty Steak Pasta
Introduction
This One-Pot Zesty Steak Pasta is a hearty, flavorful dish that comes together in just one pot for easy cooking and cleanup. Tender slices of steak mingle with al dente pasta in a creamy, tangy sauce infused with diced tomatoes and rich beef broth. Perfect for busy weeknights, this meal delivers restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort.
The zesty kick in this dish comes from the combination of juicy tomatoes and savory beef, balanced by the smoothness of heavy cream. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is versatile and satisfying. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious dinner ready in no time!
Ingredients
- 1 lb steak, sliced thin (sirloin or flank work well)
- 12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Sear the Steak: Heat olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced steak and cook until browned (about 2-3 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant (about 2 minutes).
- Deglaze & Simmer: Pour in beef broth, scraping up any browned bits. Stir in diced tomatoes, paprika, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
- Cook Pasta: Add pasta and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
- Finish with Cream & Steak: Stir in heavy cream and return the steak to the pot. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Garnish & Serve: Top with fresh parsley and enjoy!
Variations
Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce. You could also include diced jalapeños when sautéing the onions for an extra punch.
Cheesy Twist: Stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan or shredded mozzarella at the end for a richer, cheesier version. The melted cheese blends beautifully with the creamy sauce.
Vegetable Boost: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrition. Sauté them with the onions and garlic before adding the broth for a heartier dish.
Tips
Slice Steak Thinly: Cutting the steak into thin strips ensures quick, even cooking and tender bites. Partially freezing the steak for 20 minutes beforehand makes slicing easier.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep an eye on the pasta as it simmers to avoid mushiness. It should be al dente—firm to the bite—since it will continue to soak up sauce.
Adjust Consistency: If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of broth or water. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.
How to Store
Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The pasta will absorb more sauce over time, so add a little broth when reheating.
Freezing: While creamy dishes can separate when frozen, this pasta can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove with extra liquid.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid microwaving for too long to prevent the steak from becoming tough.
Conclusion
This One-Pot Zesty Steak Pasta is a foolproof recipe that combines bold flavors with effortless cooking. The creamy tomato sauce, tender steak, and perfectly cooked pasta make it a crowd-pleaser every time. Plus, with only one pot to clean, you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.
Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the tasty variations, this dish is sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. Simple, satisfying, and packed with flavor—it’s comfort food at its best!